John 10:14-15

New International Version (NIV)

I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—¹⁵ just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep.

For Meditation

This is my story, and the posture of many of God’s children.

“I am stubborn!”

Now, that may be the greatest understatement of the year. I don’t know about you, but I know I have been a pain to the Lord in my walk with Him.

I have often strayed. I have carelessly moved ahead of Him or lagged too far behind, and I have the scars around my neck for evidence. It’s been painful many times, yet, I have not learned to keep in step with Him. If anyone has blamed God more for the mishaps in his life, it’s me. Yet, it’s not His fault, and that also, l know too well.

The Lord Jesus has assured us that His yoke is easy, and His burden is light (Matt. 11:30). So, why can’t I keep in step with Him and save myself from the pain I’ve often brought on myself? Why have I added to His light burden and made it unbearably heavy for me? It’s because I am stubborn. I do not listen. I don’t wait for Him. I’ve been wise in my own eyes, and I have suffered for them many times.

O, that I may ever learn! If there was any time I needed my Good Shepherd the most, it’s now. I know most people will struggle with this characterization if somebody brought it near them, but that’s alright. That’s just me, so pray for me.

1. But, how about you?
2. How can I pray for you?
3. How do you evaluate your walk with Jesus?
4. Is there anything you may have to confess?
5. Is there any area of your life where you have abandoned your Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, for your own preferences?

I pray you will meditate on John 10 this morning and allow Jesus to tune your ears and heart to Him in a new and flesh way, and allow Him to guide you back into His fold.

So: May you an ear for Jesus like David did, and keep in step with Him; and may you experience His care and direction as your Good Shepherd in every area of your life!

Shalom